
Representatives from HZAU, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory and Tianjin Bio Hua Xing hold a discussion during the technology transfer signing ceremony. [Photo/new.hzau.edu.cn]
Huazhong Agricultural University (HZAU), Hubei Hongshan Laboratory and Tianjin Bio Hua Xing Co Ltd signed a technology transfer agreement on March 26 at Hubei Hongshan Laboratory.
Two patents for gene-editing tools developed by Professor Jin Shuangxia's team at the College of Plant Science and Technology were transferred to the company for 10 million yuan ($1.4 million). The deal aims to advance the integration of gene-editing technology with AI platforms, supporting innovation in China's breeding industry.
Gong Yihui, co-founder of Bio Hua Xing, said the company has made breakthroughs in developing large language models for gene-editing data and has undertaken multiple national-level research projects. He noted that Professor Jin's team has achieved internationally recognized results in cotton gene editing, while the partnership will enable AI to predict and design optimal gene blueprints and help build a full-chain intelligent breeding system.
Wu Yingying, vice-dean of the Academy of Science and Technology Development at HZAU and deputy director of Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, said the collaboration combines the university's research strengths with the company's industrial capabilities. She expects the use of big data and AI to accelerate the transformation of traditional breeding methods and boost efficiency.
Professor Jin highlighted that the project reflects a broader shift in the focus of agricultural development towards AI-driven design and gene editing.
Liang Qiqi, chairman of Bio Hua Xing, said the company aims to develop new cotton varieties tailored to market demand within three to five years.